Notes taken from Sister Laila Nasheeba’s Tawheed class, on www.sunnahfollowers.net “Weakness of Faith” – 18.12.2009

Below is the “Hadith of Angel Jibraeel (as)”

‘Umar, may Allah be pleased with him narrated:

“While we were sitting with the Messenger of Allah (may Allah bless with him and grant him peace) one day a man came up to us whose clothes were extremely white, whose hair was extremely black, upon whom traces of travelling could not be seen, and whom none of us knew, until he sat down close to the Prophet (may Allah bless with him and grant him peace) so that he rested his knees upon his knees and placed his two hands upon his thighs and said: ‘Muhammad, tell me about Islaam.’

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah bless with him and grant him peace) said: ‘Islam is that you witness that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and you establish the prayer, and you give the Zakat, and you fast Ramadan, and you perform the hajj of the House if you are able to take a way to it.’

The man said, ‘You have told the truth,’ and we were amazed at him asking him and [then] telling him that he told the truth.

The man then asked, ‘Tell me about imaan.’

The Prophet Muhammad (s) said, ‘That you affirm Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Last Day, and that you affirm the Decree, the good of it and the bad of it.’

The man said, ‘You have told the truth.’

The man then asked, ‘Tell me about ihsaan.’

The Prophet (s) said, ‘That you worship Allah as if you see Him, for if you don’t see Him then truly He sees you.’

(Hadith Sahih Muslim)

The man the hadith above, was none other than Angel Jibraeel (alayhi salaam).

Islam is:

1. True submission to Allah
2. To believe in and worship Allah in His Oneness without associating partners with Him
3. To pray 5 times a day
4. To fast during the month of Ramadan
5. To pay the yearly zakat
6. To perform the Hajj

Emaan is an Arabic word which means “Faith”, it is:

1. To believe in Allah, and
   
2. His Books
3. His Angels
4. His Messengers
5. The day of Judgement
6. Qadr of Allah, the good and the bad
   

Muslim means – the who submits to Allah

*Click here – To learn about Hajj & Tawheed*

ARE YOU READY FOR HAJJ?

Those embarking upon Hajj are embarking upon a Journey of life time – a Journey like none other! They must prepare mentally, physically, emotionally and most importantly spiritually. Allah says:

Below a list has been compiled for preparation before leaving for Hajj:

• Islamic things to learn
• Islamic things to do
  
• General things to do
• Issues and Questions to ask our Travel Agent
• Things to take/buy
  

Islamic things to learn

• What is Hajj, its history
  
• Why are we going to perform Hajj
• What are the rewards of Hajj
  
• How to perform Hajj – its pillars, obligatory and sunnah actions (books, audio, videos, seminars) - the Prophet Muhammad (s) said: “Take yor hajj rites from me”
  
• Learn the Hajj dua’s
  
• What violates the state of Ihram
• Review our Namaz (Salah)
  • Ensure it is being performed as the Prophet Muhammad (S) instructed us to
    
  • What are the Pillars, obligatory and Sunnah actions of Salah
  • Sujood of forgetfulness (if we miss out an obligatory action)
    
• Review our Wuzu (Wudu)
  • A man was making wudu all his life, and at the age of 40 learnt how to do it and realised he was doing it wrong all his life! knowledge is the key to success
    
  • What are the pillars, obligatory and Sunnah actions of Wudu
• Ettiquettes of Duaa
• Wiping over our socks instead of washing your feet for wudu (know its rulings)
  
• Tayammum – when one does not have access to water (know its rulings)
  
• Janaza Salah
• Learn how to perform Witr prayer
• Learn how to pray in congregation
• Learn the rulings to the Travellers prayer
  

Islamic things to do

• Update/Make an Islamic Will
• Build on and improve on our ibadah (worship)
  • 5 daily prayers on time
  • Build our relationship with Allah, seeking alot of forgiveness and making alot of dua (especially asking Allah to grant us an Hajj Mabrur (accepted Hajj)
    
  • Purify our hearts from any bad habits or any action displeasing to Allah
  • Purify our tongues – by speaking good, reduce idle talk and increase in dhikr
  • Try and fast (e.g. Mon & Thu / middle 3 days of month / every other day)
    
  • Try and pray Tahajjud (the night prayer)
    
• Build on your Taqwaa
  • Learn what is Taqwaa:
  • • Being conscious of Allah that He is watching us /Fearing Allah /Staying away from all that He has forbidden, etc.
  • Learn how to attain it:
    • Reciting the Quran and reflecting upon its meaning and implementing them /Learn about Jannah and Jahannum, etc.
      
• Increase our Emaan (faith)
  • constantly renew your intentions to why you are going for Hajj – it is a duty we owe to Allah, we are going to please Allah alone
  • The 5 pillars of Islam and 6 articles of Faith
  • Who is Allah and what rights does He have over us
    
• Build on being patient
  • maintain a positive attitude
  • say Alhamdulillah for the good and bad
  • think of those in worse situations
  • make dhikr and istighfar when in difficult situation
• Increase on your love for Allah and His Nabi (S) by studying:
  • Seerah: The life of the Prophet Muhammad (S) – book/audio/videos
    
  • The history of Makkah and Medina
  • The stories of the Sahaba and how they sacrificed their everything for Islam (their wealth, health, status, time and even lives)

General Things to do

• Pay off any outstanding debts (if possible)
• Make peace with those we have had a misunderstanding, dispute or fallen out with, or are not on speaking terms etc.
  
• Ask forgiveness from those whom we have wronged (remember a Muslim should not let 3 days go by without giving salaam to their fellow Muslim)
  
• Finish all important jobs and tasks that need doing before leaving for Hajj
• Book with a Travel agent
• Photographs for VISA
• Process and obtain VISA
• Vaccinations, Meningitis Jab, Flue Jab etc – and obtain certificates for them
  

Questions and Issues to ask our Travel Agent

• Get references from others for the travel agents
• Flight dates / journey
• What’s the itinary / program
• How many bathrooms per room?
• On which floor is our room?
• Do the rooms have air conditioning, fridge?
• Do the receptionists speak English?
• During the Hajj days, what type of food will be provided to us?
• Hotel names
• When will we move to Azziyah?
• What which day will our group go to Makkah to perform Tawaf Ifadah? Is transport provided
• How far is our Hotel from Masjid al haram and Masjid an nabawi?
• What are the arrangements for our Animal Sacrifice (Hady)?
• Does anyone in our group speak English, who will translate the hajj khutbah to us?
• What airline are we flying on?

There are many more questions one can ask, please refer to the book “Getting the best out of Al Hajj” – written by Ustadh Ismail Davids (publisher company – Darrusalaam)

Things to take / buy

Below are just suggestions of things to take with you to Hajj. They are not all necesary items – individually pick and choose what you feel is best suitable. Don’t forget to pack bags of  Taqwaa, Patience and your best of manners/behaviour! You will soon be a guest of Allah at His House!

Hand Luggage – Essentials to take (Max 5kg, Dimensions: H 56cm x W 45cm x D 25cm)

Advise – Everybody has black suitcases, so try and take one that is not black OR have a fluorescent tape /tag /ribbon attached so its easily recognisable.

• Men – Ihram & correct footwear, to change into before the Meeqat
  
• mobile phone
  
• face towel
• Passport, Tickets
• Photocopy of Passport and emergency contact numbers.
• sunglasses
• Pocket Qur’an, Dua book, Hajj/Islamic books
• Pen, pencil (with rubber) and notebook
• MP3 Player/iPhone
• Suitable Footwear (slippers) to change into if feet begin to ache during our travels
  
• Money in money pouch

Money Tips – Budget how much you will need to take

• Damm/Fidya Azza – for missing any wajibaat actions or any other violations
• Sadaqah / Udhiya (Qurbani)
• People you want to buy a present for (make a list of their names prior to going)
• Spending money – for general items, food etc
  

Main Luggage – (Max 23kg, Dimensions: H 90cm x W 75cm x D 43cm)

Clothing

• Linen Jilbabs/underslip
• Linen Trousers
• Under shameez
• Light weight cardigan
• Hijab – similar colour as group
• Hijab caps
• Pull over Hijab (i.e. no need for pins)
  
• Underwear / socks
• slippers, trainers
• Extra Ihram for men
• Ihram – big safety pin
• Money belt
  

Bathroom/Toiletres Bag

• Nail clipper
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, toothpicks
• Toilet rolls / Tissue packets
• Small scissors
• Vaseline
• Small mirror
• Hair brush
• Razors
• Tweezer
  
• Towels (1 medium and afew small)
• hair bobbles
• mini soap holder
• black seed oil
  

Bag/Rucksack – (for Hajj days – Mina, Arafat, Muzdelifah)

Essential items to put in it and not to forget:

• sleeping bag,sheet,pillow
• underwear,socks
• snacks
• flask for water
• extra clothing
• toiletrees – cream,towel,water spray bottle
• radio
• stones bag
• carriar bags
  
• small scissors
• pocket quran,dua book

Everyday Bag – (from hotel to masjid, Mina to Jamarat)
To carry items such as – money, water bottle, pocket Quran and duaa book, etc.

DOWNLOAD PDF VERSION

Asalaamualaykum,

Here is just a glimpse of what the Pilgrims who go for Hajj will be doing, during their 4-6 days of Hajj

DUTY WE OWE TO ALLAH

“… And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka‘bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those who can afford the expenses (for conveyance, provision and residence); and whoever disbelieves (i.e. denies Hajj, then he is a disbeliever of Allah), then Allah stands not in need of any of the ‘Alâmin (mankind and jinn).” (Qur’an 3:97)

REWARDS FOR HAJJ

“He who came to this House (the Ka’bah) (with the intention in performing Hajj) without speaking or committing indecencies, would return (free from sin) as on the day his mother bore him.”  (Muslim, 2/3129)

“The reward for a Hajj Mabrûr has no reward except Paradise.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

Hajj Mabrûr means a Hajj that is accepted by Allah, and for this it must be performed perfectly according to the Prophet’s Sunnah, with halal money, by avoiding sinful and evil deeds during Hajj – and done for seeking the Pleasure of Allah alone.

HAJJ SUMMARY

Day 1         Mina

Day 2         Arafat, Muzdalifah

Day 3         Mina, Makkah, Mina

Day 4-5      Mina

There are 3 types of Hajj, below is the outline of Hajj Tammatu.

Day 1 (approx. 25^th of November 2009)

8^th of Dhul Hijjah

This is the first day of Hajj.

2-3 million pilgrims will all make their Niyyah for Hajj

Labbaik Allaahumma ‘Hajjan

(Here I am O Allah making Hajj)

And by doing so they have entered into the state of “Ihram” – “Ihram” is not just wearing special clothing, but it is a way of behaviour and the pilgrims are now to abide by strict rules and regulations, remaining patient, and avoiding all sins and idle talk.

They now make their way to Mina – reciting the Talbiyah all the way!

The Talbiyah is recited for the next 3 days – declaring their strong belief in Allah and that He is One without Partners!

Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka laa shareeka laka labbayk, innal hamda wan ni’mata laka wal mulk, laa shareeka lak

(Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am. You have no partner. Here I am. Surely all praise, grace and dominion is yours, and you have no partner!

The pilgrims will get to Mina before Dhuhr time to their designated tents.

They will pray the following 4 daily prayers: Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib and Ishaa – shortened but not combined.

The pilgrims will spend their time in the remembrance of Allah, making duaa, reading Quran and asking for Allahs Forgiveness. And preparing for the great days to follow.

The Prophet (s) said: “Pilgrims and those performing ‘Umrah are Allah’s guests; their prayers are answered and their supplications for forgiveness are granted.”

They will stay here over night until the sun rises.

Day 2

9^th of Dhul Hijjah – The day of Arafat

When the sun rises, the pilgrims will all make their way to Arafat - reciting the Talbiyah all the way!

It is at Arafat where the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, gave his famous Farewell Sermon.

The Prophet Muhammad (S) said: “Hajj is Arafat!!” – emphasizing the importance of this ritual, that being the “standing” on the day of Arafat. It is one of the pillars of Hajj (without this, the hajj is not complete).

The below picture shows the boundary of Arafat – that the pilgrims must stay inside of.

In Arafat the pilgrims will also have designated tents. They will pray Dhuhr and Asr (at the time of Dhuhr) – if possible in Masjid Namirah.

This leaves the pilgrim with a lot of time after the prayer to devote themselves in standing, making dhikr and du’aa’ and beseeching Allaah, raising their hands and facing the qiblah.

It is this day Allah will free pilgrims from the Hellfire!

“…There is no day better in the sight of Allah than the Day of Arafah. On this day Allah, the Almighty and the Exalted One, descends to the nearest heaven, and He is proud of His slaves on the earth, and says to those in heaven, “Look at My servants. They have come from far and near, with hair dishevelled and faces covered with dust, to seek My Mercy, even though they have not seen my chastisement. Far more people are freed from the Hellfire on the Day of Arafah than on any other day.”

The pilgrims will stay here until after Sunset and after sunset will proceed to Muzdalifah in the masses reciting the Talbiyah all the way!

Once they reach there, they will pray Maghrib and Ishaa (combined); unless they do not reach there before midnight they are to stop where ever are and pray it.

The pilgrims will also start collecting the pebbles for the stoning for the next 3-4 days to come (there is no specific place the pebbles must be collected from)

Here the pilgrims will spend the night in Muzdalifah and rest/sleep – here they will have no designated tents!!

The pilgrims will be amongst their fellow 2-3 million pilgrims under the 1000’s of stars!! Mashaa Allah a 1^st class service!

Day 3

10^th of Dhul Hijjah – Eid Al Adha (no Eid for the Pilgrims though!)

This is the busiest day of Hajj – while the rest of the Muslim Ummah around the world would be preparing for the day of Eid the pilgrims during Hajj will be doing the following….

Before Dawn

The pilgrims will pray Fajr and after turn to the qiblah and make lots of dhikr and dua untill sunrise.

Before sunrise, the pilgrims will leave Muzdalifah and go back to Mina chanting the Talbiyah!

In Mina, the pilgrims:

• Will proceed to stone the Big Jamarat (Jamrat-Ul ‘Aqaba) with 7 pebbles – it is here where the Talibiyah will stop and the Takbir will be said.

• Will shave/cut their hair, and are out of the state of “Ihram” (the Ihram restrictions are lifted and the men can change into their normal clothes, the only restriction that remains is that husband and wife are not allowed to have intercourse.)

• Will have their animal sacrificed

The pilgrims will now make their way to Makkah

In Makkah, the pilgrims:

Will Peform Tawaf Ifaadah (Tawaf Ziyarah) – making 7 rounds around the Kabah.

Perform 2 Rakaats outside Marqee Ibrahim

Will Perform the Sai for Hajj – walking back and forth from Mount Safa to Mount Marwa

The pilgrims will now return back to Mina and stay there overnight for the next 2-3 days.

Day 4

11^th of Dhul Hijjah – Days of Tashreeq, 1

The next 3 days rituals are the same.

After noon, the pilgrims will go to stone the 3 different Jamaraat (in order of small, medium and large jamarah), each one is to be stoned with 7 pebbles by saying Allahu Akbar with each throw.

Duaa is to be made after stoning the first two, while facing the Qiblah!

Day 5

11^th of Dhul Hijjah – Days of Tashreeq, 2

Same as day 4, if pilgrims want to complete they hajj they can do but are to hasten and leave Mina by sunset.

Day 6

11^th of Dhul Hijjah – Days of Tashreeq, 3

Those who decided to stay for the full 3 days of Tashreeq – do they same as day 4 and leave Mina at any time.

Allahu Akbar! The struggle of Hajj is now over and the rites of Hajj are now complete! Life will never be the same! Hajj is the beginning of many great things to come.. may Allah accept the Hajj of all those who go to perform it. Ameen

The Pilgrims are required before they leave back to their home country to perform Tawaf Al Widaa (the farewell Tawaf)

^ these are the streets and courtyard of Makkah during prayer time!

>> My Ramadan Time Table.pdf <<

I was talking to my dear friend – and we started to discuss Laylatul Qadr – and I come to know that I had misunderstood something about that night for many years. I had always thought that it was the night in which the first revelation was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (S)… but this is not correct! Allah informs us that He sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Al-Qadr in its entirety and it is a blessed night that occurs every year during the month of Ramadan:

“We sent it (The Qur’an) down on a blessed night.” [44:3]

“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an.” [2:185]

But wasn’t it revealed gradually over 23 years?

Ibn Abbas explains this ayat by saying:

“Allah sent the Qur’an down all at one time from the Preserved Tablet (Al-Lawh Al-Mahfuz) to the House of Might (Baytul-`Izzah), which is in the heaven of this world. Then it came down in parts to the Messenger of Allah based upon the incidents that occurred over a period of twenty-three years.” [Taken from Tafsir Ibn Kathir]

I have made note of this correction on the document above, may Allah forgive me!

(( updated 19th September 2009 ))

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ramadan Mubarak! – From AlQamarDesigns

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Masha’allah, a week has already passed! Subhaanallah, time is just flying by too fast.

A few days before Ramadan I wanted to make myself a Ramadan timetable, just something to try and organise my time – so that I can strive hard not to waste my days in this blessed month.

I had gathered together information from many audio lectures and books on Ramadan – put them into categories and source referenced all the evidences from the Quran and aHadith into one document – most of the information was gained from the Ramadan Classes attended on www.sunnahfollowers.net taught by my teacher Sister Laila Nasheeba.

I wanted to share this document with you, I hope it will serve beneficial to you (the same way it is doing for me.) Still another 3 weeks to go! Enjoy the rest of your Ramadan. May Allah accept from us and you, ameen.

Dated: Ramadan 2006

Pregnant / Breastfeeding Women during Ramadan

The below has been taken from www.islamqa.com. The scholars differed concerning the ruling on pregnant woman and breastfeeding mothers if they do not fast. In brief there are several opinions:

a – That they have to make up the fasts only

This is the view of Imam Abu Haneefah (may Allah have mercy on him). Among the Sahaabah, it was the view of ‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib (may Allah be pleased with him).

Those who said that they only have to make up the fasts quoted the following as evidence:

1 – The report narrated by al-Nasaa’i (2274) from Anas, that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah has waived half of the prayer for the traveler, and fasting, and for those who are pregnant and breastfeeding.” Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Nasaa’i. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) stated that the ruling on pregnant and breastfeeding women is like the ruling on the traveler. The traveler may not fast and has to make it up later, and this also applies to pregnant and breastfeeding women. See Ahkaam al-Qur’aan by al-Jassaas.

2 – Analogy to the sick. Just as the sick are allowed not to fast and have to make it up later, the same applies to those who are pregnant and breastfeeding. See al-Mughni, 3/37; al-Majmoo’, 6/273.

This view was favoured by a number of scholars.

b – That if they fear for themselves, they have to make up the fast only, and if they fear for their children then they have to make up the fasts and feed one poor person for each day

This is the view of Imam al-Shaafa’i and Imam Ahmad. Al-Jassaas also narrated this from Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him).

c – That they have to feed the poor only, and do not have to make up the fasts

Among the Sahabah, this was the view of ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allah be pleased with him). Ibn Qudaamah also narrated this in al-Mughni (3/37) from Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him).

Abu Dawood (2318) narrated from Ibn ‘Abbaas and ‘Ali that this phrase – “those who can fast with difficulty” [al-Baqarah 2:184] was a concession granted to old men and old women who find it difficult to fast, allowing them not to fast and to feed one poor person for each day instead, and the same for pregnant and breastfeeding women if they are afraid. Abu Dawood said: i.e., for their children – they may not fast and may feed (the poor) instead. Al-Nawawi said: its isnaad is hasan.

This was also narrated by al-Bazzaar who added at the end: Ibn ‘Abbaas used to say to a concubine of his who was pregnant: “You are like one who cannot fast, so you have to pay the fidyah but you do not have to make up the fasts.” Al-Daaraqutni classed its isnaad as saheeh, as stated by al-Haafiz in al-Talkhees.

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen said in al-Sharh al-Mumti’, 6/220, after mentioning the difference of scholarly opinions about the ruling on this matter, expressed his preference for the first view that she only has to make up the missed fasts – because at most they are like one who is sick or travelling, who only have to make up missed fasts.

Shaykh Ibn Baaz said in Majmoo’ al-Fataawa, 15/227: The correct view concerning this matter is that pregnant and breastfeeding women have to make up the fasts, and what was narrated from Ibn ‘Abbaas and Ibn ‘Umar, that pregnant and breastfeeding women have to feed the poor instead, is a weak view that goes against the shar’i evidence. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “but if any of you is ill or on a journey, the same number (should be made up) from other days” [al-Baqarah 2:184]. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are likened to those who are sick, and do not come under the ruling on old men who are unable to fast. Rather they come under the ruling on those who are sick, so they should make up the fasts when they become able to do so, even if that is delayed.

Q: A woman did not fast during Ramadaan because of nifaas (postpartum bleeding), and she was not able to make up the fasts before the next Ramadaan came because of breastfeeding. What should she do?

This woman should fast and make up the days that she missed, even if that comes after the second Ramadaan, because she was unable to make up the fasts between the first and second Ramadaans for legitimate reasons. But if it is not difficult for her to make up the fasts during the winter, even if she does it day after day, then she has to do that, even if she is breastfeeding. She should strive to do whatever she can to make up the missed Ramadaan fasts before the next Ramadaan comes. If she cannot manage to do that then there is no sin on her if she delays it until the next Ramadaan. (Majmoo’ Fataawa al-Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen, 19/ question no. 360.)

Pregnant and breastfeeding women come under the same ruling as those who are sick. If it is too difficult for them to fast then it is prescribed for them not to fast, but they have to make up the fasts when they are able to do so, like those who are sick. (Shaykh Ibn Baaz said in Majmoo’ al-Fataawa, 15/225)

Allaah has given the one who missed some fasts because of a legitimate excuse until the following Ramadaan to make up those fasts, but the Muslim should not use this as an excuse to delay making them up, because he may be faced with some need or changes that make it too hard for him to make them up or prevent him from doing so, especially women who may become pregnant, or be faced with menstruation and nifaas (postpartum bleeding).

Whoever delays making up the fast with no legitimate excuse until there is very little time left, then Sha’ban ends and he has not made up the fasts he owes, is sinning and has to make up those fasts after the second Ramadaan. Some scholars stated that he also has to feed one poor person for each day. If he is able to do that then that is on the safe side, otherwise making up the missed fasts is sufficient.

In Summary –

As she has delayed making up the fasts with no excuse, she has sinned and needs to:

• Repent to Allaah and resolve not to repeat this mistake in the future
• Make up these fasts as soon as possible
• Feed a poor person 1 meal for each day missed – if she is able to do this, then that is on the safe side

What are the “3 White Days”?

The Prophet Muhammad (S) used to fast the middle 3 days of each Hijri month, that being the 13th, 14th and 15th.

Below are some Authentic Ahadeeth to encourage us to perform this great Ibadah..

“If you fast any part of the month, then fast the thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, (761); al-Nasaa’i, (2424); classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb, (1038)).

“Fasting three days of each month is fasting for a lifetime, and Ayaam al-beed (The white days) are the 13^th, 14^th and 15^th.” (Al-Nasaa’i).

“My close friend [i.e., the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)] advised me to do three things which I will never give up until I die: fasting three days each month, praying Duha, and sleeping after praying Witr.” (al-Bukhaari, 1178; Muslim, 721).

“There is nothing equivalent to fasting.” (Al-Nisaa’i, 4/165; see also Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/413)

“The prayer (du’aa’) of the fasting person will not be refused.” (Reported by al-Bayhaqi, 3/345; see also al-Silsilah al-Saheehah, 1797)

“Fasting is a protection and a strong fortress against the Fire.” (Reported by Ahmad, 2/402; see also Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/411 and Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3880)

“Whoever fasts one day for the sake of Allaah, Allaah will keep his face seventy years’ distance away from the Fire because of it.” (Reported by Muslim, 2/808)

“Whoever fasts a day seeking the pleasure of Allaah and then dies [i.e. that is the last thing he does] will enter Paradise.” (Reported by Ahmad, 5/391; see also Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/412)

Let’s hasten and take advantage of these days before a day will come that we will be begging to be returned so we can perform good deeds..

Ahmad narrated (10560) that Abu Hurayrah said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The Hour will not begin until time passes quickly, so a year will be like a month, and a month will be like a week, and a week will be like a day, and a day will be like an hour, and an hour will be like the burning of a braid of palm leaves.” Ibn Katheer said: Its isnaad is (saheeh) according to the conditions of Muslim. And it was classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 7422

Another reason that makes these Three white days special is that they are Sha’baans Three White days ..(read Hadeeth below)..

Narrated by al-Nasaa’i and Abu Dawood, and classed as saheeh by Ibn Khuzaymah, according to which Usaamah ibn Zayd said: “I said, ‘O Messenger of Allaah, I do not see you fasting in any month more than in Sha’baan.’ He said, ‘That is a month concerning which many people are heedless, between Rajab and Ramadaan. It is the month is which people’s deeds are taken up to the Lord of the Worlds, and I would like my deeds to be taken up whilst I am fasting.’” Classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Nasaa’i, 2221

This month (Sha’baan) THREE WHITE DAYS will be TUESDAY , WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY (AUGUST 4TH , 5TH, AND 6TH 2009)..

{adapted from an email sent by Sister Heba}

Assalāmu ‘Alaykum wa Rahmathullāhi wa Barakāthuhu

>> Click Here For SlideShow <<

I have just uploaded the pictures taken during our amazing visit to the Holy Lands (Makkah & Medina, in Saudia Arabia) in March/April 2009; where my parents and I embarked upon the greatest journey of our lives so far, for Umrah (Inshaa Allah Hajj is next!).  I’m still suffering from HWS (Haramein Withdrawal Symptoms) and I think it will take a very long time to recover! I’d rather not recover, and inshaa Allah forever keep those moments close to my heart, I don’t ever want to forget my 2 weeks there and loose that special feeling, thinking back now, it all just seems like a dream.. it was the best 2 weeks of my life, it was the life I always dreamt of living and being the person I always dreamt of being…  You can only but smile, and remember how much peace you were at there, and how everyone strove hard to seek the Pleasure and Forgiveness of their Lord SWT; and now that we have returned back to our “homes”, we must inshaa Allah continue striving and praying for that day we take our steps into Jannah.

O Allah please accept our Umrah and our Ibadah, and make us from Ahl Jannah, Ameen.

Masjid Al Haram – Makkah, Saudia Arabia

Masjid An-Nabawai – Medina, Saudia Arabia

During our stay in Makkah we visited:

Masjid Al Quba (Outside Medina)

I do not even know where to begin to explain how amazing my journey to Umrah was, each person shared their own special moments being a guest of Allah in His House. I had an absolutley spectacular time, what a journey Indeed, even if I try to explain it.. I will not be able to do it any justice.. those who have been will understand what I mean, it is a place you can not describe how it truely beautiful it is.. one can only truely experience and realise once they are there…Every hour spent there was an adventure…and so unique…and such a challenge – not just physcially, but mentally, emotionally, spiritually and of course your patience is tested throughout your stay there!!

As soon as we departed from Medina to Jeddah airport, making our way back to the UK…. I looked around..and I just knew things will not be the same again..it was asthough we were leaving another world .. although I am now back in the UK … my heart will always remain in Makkah & Medina, this place feels so alien to me, I look around and everything around me is so strange and doesn’t seem real….I am guessing everyone goes through this feeling, Allahu Musta’an!

May Allah have mercy on us,forgive us and guide us to live righteous lives in obidience to him…

May Allah accept from all those who went for Umrah and all those who go until the end of time…

I ask Allah to invite us back to His House very soon,and invite all those who have not yet been…

I ask Allah to call us all for Hajj, enabling us to fulfil this big obligation we owe to Him SWT, and to have an accepted Hajj. Ameen

I can’t stress it enough, you will not truely know how amazing it is, untill you go! and your life will never be the same once you return! It is a place where you truely feel at peace and so close to Allah, and you realise your true reason of existing, .. I ask Allah to keep our hearts steadfast upon His Deen, Alhamdulillahi Rabil Alameen, I end with:

Ashadu an La elaha illlah, wa ashadu anna Muhammadur RasoolAllah.

~sisterQamar

Books

The below books are a MUST-READ for all those planning to go for Umrah or Hajj, and a MUST for every home library.  Some of these books can be viewed online, links provided below:

Hajj Books

• Verifying & Explaining many matters of Hajj, Umrah & Ziyarah In the light of the Quran & Sunnah – Abdul Aziz bin Abdulla bin Baz (Darussalam)
• How the Prophet (s) Performed Hajj – Abdul Aziz bin Abdulla bin Baz (Maktaba Darussalam, Publishers & Distributors Riyadh (K.S.A))
• A guide to Hajj, Umra, & Visiting The Prophets Mosque – Muhammad As-Salih Al-Uthaimeen (The ministry of Islamic affairs, endowments, daw’aj and guidance. Ridaydh)
• Rites of Hajj & Umrah – Muhammad Naasir-ud-Deen Albaani (International Islamic Publishing House)
• Hajj & Umrah made easy – Dr Taqi Hashmi and Adnan Malik (Al-Hidaayah Publishing & Distribution)
• Getting the best out of Hajj (Pilgrimage) – Ismail Davids (Darussalam)
• Fiqh-us-Sunnah – Sayid Sabiq (American Trust Publications,U.S.)

Umrah Books

• The ultimate guide to Umrah (with special chapters on Umrah in Ramadan & Visiting Madinah) - Ismail Davids (Darussalam)
• A Manual on the rites of Umrah, in light of the noble Quran and the authentic Sunnah – Sa’eed bin ‘Alee al-Qahtaanee (Harraf & Harraf, Ilford, Essex)

History Books

• History of Makkah – Prepared by a group of scholars under the supervision of Safiur-Rahman Mubarakpuri (Darussalam)
• History of Madinah Munawwarah – Prepared by a group of scholars under the supervision of Safiur-Rahman Mubarakpuri (Darussalam)

The publisher name for each book is written within brackets and can be purchased through your local Islamic Book store, or through the many Online Islamic Book stores available (please see below):

Online Islamic Book Stores

• http://www.simplyislam.com
• http://www.al-basheer.com
• http://www.muslimbase.com
• http://www.as-sabeel.net/store
• http://www.sourceofknowledge.co.uk
• http://dar-us-salam.com
• http://darussalamlondon.com
• http://www.talibah.co.uk
• http://www.islamicgoodsdirect.co.uk
• http://www.al-hidaayah.co.uk

DVDs

• Getting the best out of Hajj, 1 Day Seminar – Ismail Davids (You can also purchase this video from Islam 1 Productions)
• The Hajj, An Information Film of Hajj Rituals – Al Hidaayah Publishing & Distribution (Birmingham, B10 0UH, UK)
• For the one setting out on a Journey – Al Madinah Al Munawwarah Research & Studies Center (www.al-madinah.org)

Online Videos/DVDs

Seminars/Series

• Hajj Step By Step – Muhammad Salah
• Hajj: Journey of a Lifetime - Dr Khalid Khan
• The Hajj Ritual – Dr Ibrahim Dremali
• Hajj A-Z – Ahmed Kobeisy
• The Hajj Journey – Habibur Rahman
• The meaning and understanding of Hajj - Ahmed Moait
• Hajj, Journey of a lifetime – Haitham Al Haddad
• Hajj – A Journey of a Lifetime – Imran Nauth

Lectures/Khutba

• How to Perform Hajj al-Mabroor -  Abu Uzayr (English Khutba in a Masjid in Ajman where the Khateeb speaks about Hajj and how to prepare for it.)
• Difference between Hajj & Umrah – Muhammad S Adly
• Hajj Coach – Muhammad Al Shareef

Documentories

• How to make Hajj - HudaTV
• Inspiration, Special Hajj Episode (Part 1 / Part 2) – Moutasem Al-Hameedi
• Classic Hajj Documentory – A journey of a life time, pilgrimage to Mecca. This video shows what Muslims do durring hajj, teaches how to perform it and who is obligated to perform this duty.
• A tale of two cities – Join a Canadian Muslim group in their journey to hajj from Toronto to Makkah

Articles

Leaflets

• Umrah Guide – Muhammad Alshareef
• Hajj Guide – Muhammad Alshareef
• Simple Hajj Guide – Muhammad Naasiruddeen al-Albaanee
• A5 Umrah Dua Leaflet – Compiled by Sr. Qamar & Parveen
  

Umrah

• Umrah in Breif – Compiled by Sr. Qamar
  
• Umrah Step by Step Guide – Compiled by Sr. Qamar & Parveen
  

Hajj

• Articles on Hajj – IslamHouse
• The Hajj – The Journey of Love – Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah
• The Hajj – A Poem – Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah
• Hajj: A Symbol of Tawheed – Husayn ibn ‘Abdul ‘Azîz Aal Sheikh
• Fiqh of Hajj for Women – Muhammad al-Sharîf
• Lessons from the Farewell Pilgrimage – ‘Abdul-Bârî ibn ‘Awad ath-Thubaytî
• Hajj & Tawheed – Saleh as-Saleh
• Hajj & Umrah A-Z – Mamdooh Muhammad

Visiting the Prophet’s Grave (sa)

• Etiquettes of Ziyaarah – Salâh al-Budayr

History/Facts

• The Story of Ibrahîm – (alaihi as-salâm)
• The virtues and benefits of ZamZam water – Muhammad Sâlih al-Munajjid

Audios

• Importance of Hajj in Islam – Imran Nauth
• All About Hajj – Ilyas Karmani

Q&A

• Umrah/Hajj – Muhammad Salah (AskHuda)
• IslamQ&A – Hajj
• IslamQ&A – Umrah

Inshaa Allah the above resources will help you (and me) tremendousley when preparing for Hajj / Umrah! Please post anymore resources/links in the comment section below to add to this collection. JazakumAllahu khairan!